Evidence for Equipment and Technology
How evidence works for NDIS equipment and assistive technology requests — the OT assessment, trials and quotes — described qualitatively and calmly.
Requesting equipment or assistive technology through the NDIS follows its own rhythm — an assessment, sometimes a trial, and quotes — that can feel bureaucratic if you do not know what to expect. This guide walks you through the evidence involved, described in plain terms, so you understand why each step exists and how to move through it with less stress and fewer surprises.
Why equipment needs its own evidence
The therapist assessment
Trials and why they matter
Quotes and what is expected
Linking equipment to goals and function
Levels of complexity and common hold-ups
Frequently asked questions
What evidence do I need for NDIS equipment?
Usually an assessment from a suitable professional — often an occupational therapist — that links the equipment to your functional needs and goals, sometimes a trial to confirm the item suits you, and quotes for the recommended equipment. The evidence expected generally scales with the cost and…
Who assesses me for equipment?
For most equipment beyond the simplest items, an occupational therapist commonly leads the assessment, though a physiotherapist or speech pathologist may be more appropriate depending on the item. They assess your needs, consider your environment, and recommend equipment that fits your functional…
Do I always need a trial?
Not always, but trials are valuable for many items, especially more significant ones. Trialling equipment before it is funded confirms that it fits, works in your environment and does what it is meant to do. If a trial is suggested, test the equipment in the situations you would really use it.
How many quotes do I need?
It depends on the cost and complexity of the item — simpler items may need less, while more significant equipment may require more detailed quoting. What matters most is that the quote matches the specific item and customisations your therapist recommended, and that it is current.
Why is my equipment request taking time?
Common hold-ups include an assessment that names a product without linking it to your function and goals, a quote that does not match the recommendation, a missing trial, out-of-date evidence, or missing detail about your home environment. Addressing these before submitting helps avoid delays.
How is equipment linked to being reasonable and necessary?
The strongest requests show clearly how the equipment reduces a functional difficulty and helps you pursue a goal — such as moving safely, communicating or taking part in your community. When the assessment, trial and quote all point to the same purpose, the request makes that link easy to see.